by Mike Busch | Jun 1, 2014 | EAA Sport Aviation Magazine, Magazine Articles
It is nearly impossible to install a cylinder properly when the engine is on the airplane. Here’s why. I suppose it comes as no surprise to readers of this column that I’m not exactly a fan of top overhauls. I never like to see any cylinder removed from any piston...
by Mike Busch | May 1, 2014 | EAA Sport Aviation Magazine, Magazine Articles
Why a thorough, independent prebuy examination is so essential, even for a simple 172. The prospective buyer was looking for a Lycoming-powered Cessna 172 Skyhawk, and had a budget of $35,000. He searched online and found one being offered with an asking price in the...
by Mike Busch | Apr 1, 2014 | EAA Sport Aviation Magazine, Magazine Articles, Uncategorized
If your aircraft isn’t airworthy but you need to fly it anyway, here’s how. As every pilot knows, it’s strictly against the rules to fly an unairworthy aircraft: §91.7 Civil aircraft airworthiness. (a) No person may operate a civil aircraft unless it...
by Mike Busch | Mar 1, 2014 | EAA Sport Aviation Magazine, Magazine Articles
There’s a lot more to engine bearings than meets the eye. According to Miriam-Webster, a bearing is “a machine part in which another part turns.” Most aircraft have lots of them. Wheels spin on their axles with the help of tapered roller bearings. Magnetos,...
by Mike Busch | Feb 1, 2014 | EAA Sport Aviation Magazine, Magazine Articles
Don’t do anything rash until you’re sure where the oil is going. Figure 1—The Cessna T210’s oil consumption had suddenly increased and the owner’s mechanic recommended a $14,000 top overhaul. A fellow named Ted phoned me to say that his 1984 Cessna T210 was in the...
